Photo Flash: The Players Theatre Presents STONE SOUP THE MUSICAL

If you are hungry for a great family show, that can tickle the funny bone and tug at your heart strings, all while serving up a beautiful message - then Stone Soup should be on your fall menu. A proclamation of gratitude and collaboration are the notable themes in Literally ALive Theatre's fall musical, "Stone Soup". With music by Michael Sgouros, book and lyrics by Brenda Bell, and directed/choreographed by David M. Beris, the began performances this weekend and runs through November 13th at the Players Theatre located at 115 MacDougal Street (between West 3rd and Bleecker) in the West Village.

Set in Revolutionary War America, two lost soldiers (Eric Fletcher and Patrick Brancato) stumble upon the "perfect" village while searching for food and shelter. Unfortunately, the villagers are not so willing to share with these weary men until the soldiers begin to make their favorite meal - Stone Soup. A talented cast of professional adults and local children performing with a live percussion ensemble bring this classic fable to life on stage with mirth and music, demonstrating that anything is possible if we all work together.

The show centers on the lives of three women from this colonial village, each with their own stories of how the war has affected them and led them to be protective of their food, town and emotions. Sarah (Rebecca Pomeranz), the school mistress, has lost her brother to the war, Grace (Dionna Eshieman) her husband and Daphne Louise (Laurel Kit) is overwhelmed with the duties of caring for everyone else leading her to the conclusion that loosing control is not an option. But their chance meeting with these lost and hungry soldiers brings them more than a great pot of soup. With the soldiers' guidance, each woman finds her way back from the lonely road of loss to the warmth and support of the other women.

The production features a children's ensemble of ten local thespians who rotate in the roles and are led by the spunky Jessie (Joycelyn Deiscoll) who as their fearless leader inspires both the children and the grownups.

Prior to each performance, families may participate in an interactive arts workshop. Here the audience discovers how different art forms bring literature to life. The families work together to create a quilt which will be donated to VA hospitals and homes as well as a souvenir they can take with them. Coupled with the show, this two-hour experience adds up to a memorable, fun-filled afternoon for the entire family.

Literally AliveTM is a New York City based family theatre company that produces original musicals based on classic children's literature. Now in its 17th season, the company has taken residence at the Players Theatre with sister company, Be Bold! and will also produce "Frankenstein", "A Christmas Carol" and "The Little Mermaid" this season.

"Stone Soup" opens on October 9th and runs on Saturdays (3p) and Sundays (11a). There is a free family workshop one hour prior to each performance at the Players Theatre located at 115 MacDougal Street (between Bleecker and West 3rd). Tickets are $32-$52 including the workshop. Tickets can be purchased through theatermania.com or by calling 1-866-811-4111. For more information, photos or press passes call: (212)-475- 1237 or visit www.SoupintheVillage.com.

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